Penumbra Theatre Company: I Wish You Love

With the Civil Rights Act unsigned, and equality still a dream, one black man was welcomed in houses every week. I Wish You Love looks at the African American community of 1957 through the words and music of one of its heroes, Nat "King" Cole.

About

"Nothing short of beautiful… a fitting tribute to a complex man"--Pioneer Press

"Cool, restrained elegance"--Star Tribune

On television and radio, 1957 America was entertained by the sweet sounds and warm personality of Nat "King" Cole. His carefully manicured image distracted an entire generation of white viewers from the reality of racial violence raging in the streets. Still, he believed that with enough talent and persistence he could be valued for the strength of his character as opposed to the color of his skin. But as storm clouds gathered on the horizon, trouble brewed in the studio where Nat "King" Cole was trying to live his dream.

Created in partnership with Penumbra Theatre Company,I Wish You Love is made possible by the Kennedy Center Fund for New American Plays. As Minnesota's only professional African American theater, Penumbra was founded in 1976 to make socially responsible art--art that provokes thought and action around issues of racism and social justice.

Performance Timing: Approximately 2-1/2 hours, including one 15-minute intermission.